BERLIN, Feb 27 (Reuters) - Senior representatives from Germany's conservative and Social Democratic parties are set to commence exploratory talks on Friday, as confirmed by sources within both parties speaking to Reuters.
Armin Laschet, head of the leading conservative bloc following Sunday's election, has expressed a desire to establish a government by Easter on April 20. However, this deadline may prove challenging given the significant ideological gaps between the parties.
Potential complications may arise due to Merz's recent statements, which have already elicited criticism from his potential coalition partner.
A coalition between the conservatives and the Social Democrats, who secured the third position, stands as the sole feasible option for government formation if all parties remain committed to their pledge not to cooperate with the right-wing party that came in second, marking the best performance by a far-right German party since World War Two.
The initial exploratory discussions will involve nine key figures from each party and could progress to more detailed dialogues through specialized working groups focusing on various policy areas, with the goal of outlining a comprehensive legislative agenda for the next four years.
The conservative campaign primarily emphasized economic deregulation and stricter immigration policies. In contrast, the Social Democratic Party, under the ongoing leadership of Olaf Scholz as acting chancellor, advocates for an increase in the minimum wage and opposes Merz's proposal for stricter border controls.